Club legend Rio Ferdinand has heaped praise on Arsenal youngster Gabriel Martinelli, a player whom Manchester United could have signed three years ago.

In his first campaign at the Emirates Stadium, the 18-year-old has contributed 10 goals from just 15 starts and 11 substitute outings in all competitions.

Ferdinand has been left hugely impressed by the teenager, who failed to earn a deal with United during his youth days having been provided with a trial period at the club.

During a Q&A session on Instagram, Ferdinand said: "I watched him against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. He is a proper player, I think he is going to be a player in world football in years to come.

"Eighteen years old doing what he is doing. The goal against Chelsea alone, he runs from the edge of his box, set piece against his team takes it up the other end. Normally your legs are gone by then and you've got no energy, he has got the composure to slot it.

"Great player, but his awareness of how he plays, the way he moves on the pitch, the way he is intelligent to receive the ball. He comes inside at the right times, it is mad, he is a mature player for such a young kid. He needs to play next year, I think [Mikel] Arteta is going to find a way to get him in there."

The Brazilian prospect has recently been linked with a future transfer to Real Madrid.